How to Make Your Backpack Stand Out

Make your backpack your own with these DIY backpack decorating ideas

Whether you're tired of mistaking someone else’s backpack for your own or want a bag that stands out as much as you do, there are a ton of crafty ways you can decorate your backpack so that it’s truly one of a kind. You can follow these five DIY backpack decorating tips to make your bag unique—but before you begin, make sure you have a backpack that you love, whether that means going for a bright yellow or a bold pattern. After all, if you’re going to take the time to decorate it, you should make sure it’s a keeper!

Make a Statement

Looking for a quick and effective way to personalize your bag? Try adding iron-on patches or pins. You can find both in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. Pins are great if you want more versatility, since you can easily exchange them or move them around, while iron-on patches can give your bag a vintage look. Just be sure to read the label on your backpack before you apply an iron-on patch. You can usually apply them to cotton or polyester fabrics, but should avoid using them on nylon, rayon, or leather.

Get Colorful

You can use fabric markers to add more personality and color to your backpack. If you’re not confident about drawing freehand, try sketching your design in pencil first or using stencils. You can also create shapes and patterns with painter’s tape, color between the lines, and then remove the tape to reveal your design. This is a great approach if you want to add an abstract design or color block your backpack.

Create Texture

Another great way to make your backpack stand out is to add texture. You can draw on your backpack using puffy paint instead of—or in addition to—fabric markers to create a 3D-effect. Another idea? Add pompoms using a needle and thread or just a safety pin.

Bling It Out

There are plenty of ways to give your backpack a bit of shine. You can embellish it with glitter glue or use an applicator tool to add studs and rhinestones. Craft stores will also sell rhinestone stickers you can simply place on your backpack. Are you drawn to sequins? Sew them on first then add a dab of hot glue to secure them in place.

Zip it Up

Don’t forget the finishing touches: your zippers. You can jazz them up by tying on a tassel or a keychain. Another trick is to use embroidery floss to create a zipper pull just like you would to make a short friendship bracelet. If you want to customize the zippers themselves, try painting them with nail polish.

We want to see your creations! Once you’ve finished your DIY design, share it on social media with #LifeUnzipped.

By: Jessen O’Brien